1. To yearn or have a strong wish for something or someone often with a nostalgic feeling: Even though Jerome had lived for many years in the new country, he still pined for his native land.
2. To ache, to long for, or to desire strongly for someone or something: After suffering so much heartbreak, Marina continued to pine for her lost child.
3. Etymology: from Latin poena (Greek poine), "punishment, penalty", which also is the basis for the English word pain.